Bay Area/ Oakland
Published on July 03, 2017
Where To Watch July 4th Fireworks In San Francisco & OaklandPhoto: GPS/Flickr

If the fog doesn't roll in and the skies stays clear tomorrow night, there are some truly impressive vantage points for watching July 4th fireworks around San Francisco and Oakland.

Remember to dress in layers, as temperatures will drop after sunset.

Fireworks at Pier 39. | Photo: Pier 39/Facebook

San Francisco

Pier 39 and Fisherman's Wharf

Pier 39 celebrates Independence Day with live music and the city's ofifical fireworks display, which starts around 9:30pm.

Boat tour companies are offering special fireworks cruises, with a sail around the Bay or a tour on a whale-watching vessel.

To get a good view, head to Fisherman's Wharf, Ghirardelli Square or Aquatic Park. Or, hang out at Crissy Field until the fireworks kick off. To reserve a good spot, arrive early, as many others will be vying for the best viewpoints.

Illegal fireworks in the Mission, 2015. | Photo: Anuj Biyani/Flickr

Treasure Island

To watch fireworks with the San Francisco skyline in the background, head to Treasure Island's Great Lawn, but start early to avoid getting trapped in bridge traffic.

Muni is adding service for the 25-Treasure Island line; drivers should park on the southern end of Treasure Island, between Building 1 and Hangar 2 off California Avenue.

Grandview Park. | Photo: Arthur K./Yelp

Grandview Park

If you are in the Inner Sunset, give Grandview Park a try. The park, also called Turtle Hill, offers a 360-degree view over the city. The popular spot to watch sunsets also features a mosaic stairway. Many families come here for the Fourth of July show, but it might get foggy sooner than other places.

Coit Tower and Twin Peaks

You can also check out Coit Tower. As views might be blocked by bushes, make sure you find the right spot. Just as with Twin Peaks, one of the highest points in the city, the parking lot will fill up early, so make sure to make plans ahead of time.

Bernal Heights Park

Bernal Heights Park offers patriots a great view of the city, but there aren't too many places to sit down. The park is popular with locals and as fireworks aren't that close, it's usually quieter than other places.

View from Middle Harbor Shoreline Park. | Photo: George L./Yelp

Oakland

Mountain View Cemetery

In the East Bay, those seeking alternatives to the Berkeley Marina should give the top of Mountain View Cemetery a try. "Shocking views of Oakland, San Francisco, and the San Francisco Bay," Yelper Scott H. writes.

Middle Harbor Shoreline Park

Middle Harbor Shoreline Park offers breathtaking views of the Bay Bridge and the San Francisco skyline. The West Oakland park is located next to the Port of Oakland.

Local fire departments remind the public to leave fireworks to the professionals. Also, ASPCA has also published a safety guide that reminds guardians to keep four-legged friends safe at home.

What's your favorite spot to watch fireworks during the Independence Day festivities? Let us know in the comments.